Number of anoa declining

Number of anoa declining

JAKARTA (JP): A wildlife expert has warned that the population of anoa, a dwarf water buffalo endemic to Sulawesi, has declined to around 3,000, or about half of the estimate of 20 years ago.

Alimaturahim, a conservationist based in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, said rapid deforestation, unchecked hunting and the government's indifference have combined to reduce the numbers of the animal, which is a protected species, Antara reported.

Alimaturahim said around 2,000 anoa are still roaming Southeast Sulawesi, and another 1,000 in other parts of Sulawesi.

He said captive breeding has proven difficult given that a pair of anoa usually take about five years to begin conceiving, and then, the pair only produces two offspring at the most.

The Anoa is one of a number of rare species of animals only found in Sulawesi, which is regarded as a meeting point between the Asian and Australian continent. It is a small dark brown buffalo about one meter high.

The animal is hunted for its hide, horns and meat.

Antara reported that government officials are among the main buyers of anoa horns. (emb)